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ActivLives boss wins award as charity marks successful year at AGM

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The CEO of Ipswich charity ActivLives has been named Activity Champion of the Year, as the organisation celebrates the dedication of its long-serving volunteers at its 11th annual general meeting.

The big picture: Julie Stokes was honoured at the Active Suffolk Awards 2024 for her decade-long leadership in promoting community wellbeing through inclusive sports and exercise programmes.

Julie Stokes was honoured at the Active Suffolk Awards 2024
Julie Stokes, CEO of Ipswich charity ActivLives, was named Activity Champion of the YearActivLives

The charity's work spans multiple programmes:

  • Community gardens and outreach projects

  • Woodworking through ActivSheds

  • Health walks

  • Exercise classes

  • Lunch clubs

  • Community events

Why it matters: The celebrations highlight the growing impact of community health initiatives in Suffolk, particularly in supporting mental health and helping those with learning disabilities.

By the numbers:

  • 117 people attended the AGM

  • 3 volunteers honoured for over 10 years' service

  • 16 years of service from one volunteer at St Mary at Stoke Lunch Club

What they're saying: "I've seen people's lives changed, as they grow, as they come and as they made friends. Our lunch club is very much like a family," said Anita Bimpson, who has volunteered at the St Mary at Stoke Lunch Club for 16 years.

"We have experienced change and challenge times, but I have an amazing team of caring, passionate, enthusiastic and experienced staff and a wonderful team of dedicated and loyal volunteers," said Stokes.

The Mayor of Ipswich celebrated with 117 volunteers, members, staff, partners, and supporters for local charity ActivLives’ Annual General Meeting
The Mayor of Ipswich celebrated with 117 volunteers, members, staff, partners, and supporters for local charity ActivLives’ Annual General MeetingActivLives

Success beyond leadership: The charity's BreatheFit programme, which runs in Felixstowe and Ipswich, was also named runner-up for Innovative Project of the Year at the Active Suffolk Awards. The programme helps people with respiratory conditions improve their physical health through weekly sessions.

What's next: ActivLives is seeking to develop existing partnerships and build new relationships with funders and supporters to expand its services across Suffolk.

The bottom line: As the charity celebrates both its leader's success and its volunteers' dedication, the charity demonstrates how local organisations can make a lasting difference in community health and wellbeing through inclusive programmes and committed volunteers.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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